How to Improve Relative Clause Usage in AP English Essays

📚 What is a Relative Clause?

A relative clause is a type of subordinate clause that modifies a noun or pronoun. It begins with a relative pronoun (who, whom, which, that) or a relative adverb (where, when, why). Essentially, it adds extra information to a sentence.

• 🔍 Definition: A dependent clause that modifies a noun or pronoun.
• 🔗 Function: To provide additional information or to identify the noun it modifies.

📜 A Brief History

The use of relative clauses can be traced back to the development of complex sentence structures in Old English. Over time, these structures evolved, becoming more refined and standardized. Modern English grammar, as taught in AP English courses, emphasizes the correct and effective use of these clauses to enhance clarity and sophistication in writing.

🔑 Key Principles for AP English Essays

• 🎯 Clarity: Ensure the relative clause clearly refers to the intended noun. Avoid ambiguity.
• 📏 Conciseness: Use relative clauses to combine sentences and avoid unnecessary repetition.
• ✅ Correct Punctuation: Use commas to set off nonessential (nonrestrictive) relative clauses. Essential (restrictive) clauses do not require commas.
• ⚖️ Pronoun Choice: Use 'who' and 'whom' for people, 'which' for things, and 'that' for both (though 'which' is generally preferred for nonrestrictive clauses).
• 🗣️ Voice: Pay attention to the tone of your essay, and make sure your relative clauses match it.
• 📝 Variety: Employ a mix of relative clause types to enhance sentence structure and maintain reader interest.
• 🔗 Integration: Seamlessly integrate relative clauses into your sentences to maintain a natural flow and avoid awkward phrasing.

✍️ Real-World Examples

Here are some examples showing how relative clauses can improve your AP English essays:

1. Example 1 (Combining Sentences):
   • Original: "The protagonist is flawed. He makes many mistakes."
   • Improved: "The protagonist, who is flawed, makes many mistakes."
2. Example 2 (Adding Detail):
   • Original: "The setting is important."
   • Improved: "The setting, which is a desolate wasteland, is important to the novel's theme."
3. Example 3 (Identifying Noun):
   • Original: "The book explores complex themes."
   • Improved: "The book that I read explores complex themes related to existentialism."

🚫 Common Mistakes to Avoid

• ❌ Misplaced Modifiers: Ensure the relative clause is as close as possible to the noun it modifies.
• ❓ Incorrect Pronoun Choice: Using 'which' for people or 'who' for things.
• ✍️ Lack of Clarity: Vague or ambiguous references.
• 🧱 Awkward phrasing: Struggling to smoothly weave the relative clauses into your argument.

💡 Conclusion

Mastering relative clauses is crucial for writing sophisticated and effective AP English essays. By understanding the principles, practicing with examples, and avoiding common mistakes, you can significantly improve your writing skills and achieve higher scores. Keep practicing, and you'll become a relative clause pro in no time!